Updated March 16, 2026: We have temporarily disabled the automatic installation of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app to eligible devices with the Microsoft 365 desktop apps. We will provide another update once we re-enable these installations.
Introduction
Starting in OctoberDecember 2025, Microsoft will begin automatically installing the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows devices that have Microsoft 365 desktop client apps. This app provides a centralized entry point for accessing Copilot experiences and AI-powered capabilities across Microsoft 365. This change simplifies access to Copilot and ensures users can easily discover and engage with productivity-enhancing features.
When this will happen
Rollout begins in early OctoberDecember 2025 (previously early October) and completes mid-NovemberDecember 2025 (previously mid-November)
How this affects your organization
Who is affected:
Organizations with Windows devices running Microsoft 365 desktop client appsCustomers outside the European Economic Area (EEA) (EEA customers are excluded)Admins responsible for managing Microsoft 365 Apps deploymentsUsers on eligible devices who will see theThe Microsoft 365 Copilot app appear in their Start menuwill not automatically deploy to eligible Microsoft 365 desktop apps devices during this time.- Existing installations are unaffected.
What will happen:
- The Microsoft 365 Copilot app will be automatically installed on Windows devices that have Microsoft 365 desktop apps, unless administrators opt out.
- The app will appear in the Start menu as a new entry point for accessing Copilot experiences across Microsoft 365.
- On devices where the app is already installed, no visible change will occur.
- The app installation is enabled by default and does not require user interaction.
- This change does not apply to customers in the European Economic Area (EEA).
What you can do to prepare
Admin Actions
Review the documentation for more details and instructions on howUse other app deployment methods to manage this.You can opt out of the installation ininstall the Microsoft 365 Apps Admin Center.Copilot app until this capability is restored. You can use Intune and other software management tools to deploy the app.
Consider notifying helpdesk and users to reduce confusion and support requests.Update internal documentation if you reference installed apps or Copilot access points.Monitor this post for the next update on re-enablement.
User Impact
- Users may see a new app icon for Microsoft 365 Copilot in the Start menu.
- On many devices, the app may already be installed, resulting in no visible change
Compliance considerations
No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization.